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Salomon Exit Low 2000 Wave
Price: £59.95
What? Multi-activity shoe as worn by numerous outdoor
journos and trade types.
I like these shoes a lot, I really do. In fact I like them so much
I'm going to buy a pair. But I'm afraid I can't see myself ever using
them for running, walking or mountain biking with any seriousness.
Here's why:
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For running, they're simply too
heavy, too hot and not cushioned enough
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For walking, there isn't enough
ankle support and the generous soft padding in that region,
while comfortable, isn't confidence inspiring.
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For mountain biking, the toe box
is a bit bulky, the sole too flexible, there's no way of
tucking the laces out of harm's way and I prefer to use SPDs
anyway
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The Exit Lows aren't alone in this, you could say the same or
similar about many of their rivals, but the word on the street is
that the older, pre-2000 model was more functional for practical use.
Don't get me wrong, the Exit Low 2000 is a nicely put-together, and
very comfortable nubuck leather and mesh shoe for lounging around and
light walking on easy terrain. They start off by feeling a little
rigid and tight - the sizing is small compared to the same company's
X-Adventure 7 boots - but break in quickly to become almost slipper
like on the foot.
They do have a tendency to get a little hot and sweaty when it's
warm, even with the foam-mesh tongue, but in colder weather the
breeze whistles through that same area meaning you get the worst of
both worlds. The 'Contragrip' sole on the other hand is good and
grippy and, like I said, they look and feel good on the foot.
There will be people who use these for mountain walking and
scrambling, but most of us will be happier with something a little
more supportive. What they are great for, is general travel wear and
casual slumming, which, I suspect, is what Salomon intended all
along.
Verdict: We reckon these are the 4x4s of the outdoor
footwear world. They look the part and, at a push, can do it, but
specialist footwear does the job better in every case. Just be aware
of their limitations. If you do want a shoe that genuinely might cut
the mustard, take a look at Salomon's adventure racing Raid
Wind.
Performance: 3
Value: 3.5
Whisk me off to the Salomon
web warren
Pushed for
time: The Exit Low 200s are great for lounging around and
travel, but not especially wonderful for walking, biking or running.
I'm still buying a pair though.
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